Pygmy Hippo Day is celebrated on April 8 to raise awareness about the endangered pygmy hippo, a smaller cousin of the common hippopotamus. This day highlights the plight of the pygmy hippo, with an estimated population of about 2,000 individuals primarily found in Ivory Coast, Guinea, and Sierra Leone. Pygmy hippos are significantly smaller than their larger relatives, standing about half the height and weighing less than a quarter of a full-sized hippo. The species is rapidly moving toward extinction, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts. The pygmy hippo was discovered in 1849 and recognized as unique enough to have its own genus, Choeropsis, by 1852. Celebrating this day typically involves raising awareness about their endangered status and promoting wildlife conservation initiatives.